Tirana: Walking Tour of Skanderbeg Square, Bllok & BunkArt

Summary

Wander Tirana’s squares, mosques and communist secrets with locals

You’ll walk Tirana’s lively streets with a local guide, from Skanderbeg Square to secret bunkers and buzzing Bllok cafés. Hear stories of resilience in Et’hem Bey Mosque, feel history beneath your feet in BunkArt 2, and end up seeing Albania’s capital with fresh eyes.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping into Skanderbeg Square was the sound—kids chasing pigeons, taxi radios somewhere behind me, and our guide Ardit’s voice cutting through it all. He waved us over by the big statue (the horse is bigger than you’d think), and started talking about how this spot’s seen everything from protests to concerts. I caught a whiff of roasted chestnuts from a cart nearby. It felt like the city was wide awake even though it was barely 10am.

We ducked into Et’hem Bey Mosque next—shoes off, cool tiles underfoot. Ardit explained the frescoes survived communism because locals formed a human chain around the building when they tried to close it. I didn’t expect that part; I just stood there for a second, looking at those faded blues and reds. Then we wandered toward the Pyramid of Tirana (Enver Hoxha Pyramid). Some teenagers were skateboarding down one side while Ardit told us how it went from dictator’s shrine to graffiti canvas. The contrast made me grin.

BunkArt 2 was colder inside than outside—sort of damp too—and honestly gave me goosebumps when he pointed out old surveillance equipment. We talked about Albania’s political past right there in those tunnels; I could hear my own footsteps echoing back at me. After that, we strolled through Bllok where people sipped espresso on terraces that used to be off-limits unless you were part of the regime. Ardit laughed when I tried to say “mirëdita”—probably butchered it—but nobody seemed to mind.

By the time we circled back to Skanderbeg Square, my feet were tired but my head was buzzing with all these stories layered over each other—the castle ruins, Youth Park full of shouting kids, even that odd little House of Leaves museum (which I still think about sometimes). Tirana felt both familiar and totally new at once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tirana city historical and cultural tour

• Explain Skanderbeg Square
• Explain Et'hem Bej Mosque
• Explain BunkArt 1 and 2 museums
• Explain Tirana castle ruins
• Explain Albanian political situation
• Explain biggest mosque in Balkan
• Explain the bridge
• Explain religion in Albania
• Explain dictator pyramid
• Explain checkpoint Memorial
• Explain Bllok area
• Explain dictator former residence
• Explain Youth Park and Taiwan center
• Explain Orthodox church
• Explain house of leaves
• End tour at Skanderbeg Square

Top questions

Is this Tirana walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on this walking tour are wheelchair accessible.

Does the tour include entry to BunkArt 1 or BunkArt 2?

The tour includes an explanation at both BunkArt 1 and BunkArt 2 locations.

What languages does the guide speak on this Tirana walking tour?

The licensed guide speaks English and Italian during the tour.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants can join; prams or strollers are welcome and infants must sit on an adult's lap.

Where does the Tirana walking tour start and end?

The tour starts and ends at Skanderbeg Square in central Tirana.

Are service animals allowed on this walking tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed throughout the route.

Is public transportation available near the meeting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby Skanderbeg Square.

What’s included

Your day includes a fun and interactive experience led by an English- or Italian-speaking licensed guide through central Tirana’s historic sites and neighborhoods; all areas are wheelchair accessible so everyone can join comfortably—even families with strollers or service animals. No extra transport needed—the meeting point is right in Skanderbeg Square where you’ll return at the end.